Signed Protocol on cooperation in the fight against trafficking in human beings by the Republic of Bulgaria and the Republic of North Macedonia

On the 23rd of July, 2019 the Republic of Bulgaria and the Republic of North Macedonia signed a Protocol on cooperation in the fight against trafficking in human beings in the city of Ohrid.

After the signing ceremony the Deputy Prime Minister of Bulgaria, Minister of Defense and Chairperson of NCCTHB Mr. Krasimir Karakachanov said:

"This is a following step, the next agreement signed between the Republic of Bulgaria and the Republic of North Macedonia. Combating trafficking in human beings is a topic which European institutions not only speak of, but a lot has been done in this respect as well, especially having in mind that this is such a serious crime against the person."

The protocol foresees cooperation for the support and protection of victims of human trafficking, exchange of experience and good practices between professionals, common information and implementation of prevention and awareness-raising campaigns.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior of the Republic of North Macedonia, Mr. Oliver Spasovski, stressed that this is an extremely important document.

The Deputy Minister of Justice and Deputy Chairman of the National Commission for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings, Prof. Nikolay Prodanov, Mrs. Kamelia Dimitrova, Secretary of the National Commission, HE Angel Angelov - Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria in the Republic of North Macedonia also took part in the Bulgarian Delegation in Ohrid.

During the visit, an additional meeting was also held with the delegation of the Republic of North Macedonia led by Mr. Oliver Spassovski, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior with the participation of the State Secretary, Ms. Magdalena Nestorovska and Mr. Sasho Tasevski, Director of the Public Security Bureau.